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Description
Calystegia Sepium, commonly known as the Hedge Bindweed, is a perennial vine native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the morning glory family and is known for its trumpet-shaped white or pink flowers that bloom from June to September. The plant has a long and extensive root system that can reach up to 3 meters deep in the soil. Its leaves are arrow-shaped and can grow up to 10 cm long. The Hedge Bindweed is a fast-growing plant that can spread by both seeds and roots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Genus | Calystegia |
Appearance
The Hedge Bindweed can grow up to 2 meters long and has a twining habit. Its flowers are trumpet-shaped and can grow up to 5 cm long. They are white or pink in color, and their petals have a distinctive striped appearance. The plant’s leaves are arrow-shaped and have a smooth texture. They are usually green but can sometimes have a bluish tint. The Hedge Bindweed’s fruit is a capsule that contains four seeds.
Care Guide
The Hedge Bindweed is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for your Hedge Bindweed:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The Hedge Bindweed does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 7.
- Sunlight: The Hedge Bindweed can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hedge Bindweed is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can sometimes be affected by the following:
- Mites: The plant can be infested with spider mites, which can cause leaves to curl and turn yellow.
- Aphids: The Hedge Bindweed can also be infested with aphids, which can cause leaves to yellow and curl.
- Powdery Mildew: The plant can sometimes be affected by powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on leaves.
Habitat
The Hedge Bindweed is a common weed that can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, gardens, and along roadsides. It can grow in both sunny and shaded areas and can tolerate a range of soil types. The plant is considered an invasive species in some areas, as it can quickly spread and outcompete native plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Hedge Bindweed poisonous?
A: The plant is not considered poisonous, but its seeds and roots can be toxic in large quantities.
Q: How do I control the Hedge Bindweed?
A: The plant can be difficult to control, as its roots can grow deep into the soil. One method is to pull the plant out by hand, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible. Herbicides can also be effective, but they should be used with caution, as they can harm other plants.
Q: Can the Hedge Bindweed be used for medicinal purposes?
A: The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including skin rashes, burns, and digestive problems. However, there is little scientific evidence to support these uses.
Q: How fast does the Hedge Bindweed grow?
A: The plant is a fast grower and can grow up to 30 cm in a week under ideal conditions.
Related Plants
- Calystegia hederacea (Ivy-leaved Bindweed)
- Convolvulus arvensis (Field Bindweed)
- Ipomoea purpurea (Common Morning Glory)
References
- “Calystegia Sepium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287032.
- “Calystegia Sepium.” Plants For A Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Calystegia+sepium.
- “Hedge Bindweed.” The Wildlife Trusts, www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/wildflowers/hedge-bindweed.
